"I'd rather Wales be drawn well in the World Cup, do well in the autumn series and Six Nations."

"So if Gatland being away has hampered it, then to me it's the wrong decision because my country, Wales, comes first to me."

In the wake of the 10 November loss to Argentina, Wales defence coach

But Thomas, who played 100 games for Wales at centre, wing and full-back, and also took over from injured skipper Brian O'Driscoll on the 2005 Lions tour to New Zealand, fears the situation has contributed to the Welsh slump.

Davies is also concerned that Wales' 2015 World Cup ranking has suffered as a result of Gatland's absence, which was endorsed by the Welsh Rugby Union.

International Rugby Board rankings published after the autumn Tests in Europe are finished will form the basis of the 2015 World Cup draw.

The latest update to those rankings is scheduled to be made public at lunchtime on Monday, 19 November.